Medium Size NZ Māori Waka Taua War Canoe - Ornament and Trophy

This medium size 410mm (16") long Maori War Canoe (Waka Taua) really shows off the skills of its Māori designer. The waka is a beautiful ornament, a stunning souvenir of New Zealand, and a unique trophy. The waka has a macrocarpa hull with carving along the upper side. The prow and stern (tauihu and taurapa) are beautifully embellished with intricate native paua shell inlay. The tauihu of a waka taua was traditionally carved as a figurehead to represent a spiritual guardian or god, helping to part the waters and keep the crew safe. The beautifully carved taurapa acted as a counterweight, and a symbol of the tribe's mana (prestige). The waka is incredibly finely detailed, and made in Rotorua, New Zealand. It comes to you in a sturdy mailing tube. Inside, the canoe is in 3 parts - the body of the canoe, the taurapa, and the base. They join together super easily - just make sure you give the taurapa a wee push into its slot. On the outside of the mailing tube is more information from the Māori designer about the history of the waka taua. The base can have a gold or black engravable plaque attached, to turn this beautiful ornament into a trophy. Should you wish to go ahead with engraving, plus select the option you want, and then in the box that will pop up, enter up to 7 words you would like engraved. Engraving takes 2-3 days. Please note that engraved items cannot be returned, except for the unlikely event of us getting the engraving wrong. Proudly made in New Zealand, and shipped worldwide.